Ice and Snow Removal for Events
As we know, it is important that Princeton University take every reasonable measure to assure safe conditions during the snow and ice emergencies.
This page is primarily addressed to the managers who have responsibility for the facilities that hold after-hours events for the general public. Other staff overseeing student facilities also need to be aware of the Grounds and Building Maintenance Department procedures.
During the winter months the Grounds and Building Maintenance Department has a number of ways to respond to ice and snow conditions:
- During most periods outside normal working hours, the Department has an around-the-clock maintenance technician on duty who can provide a quick sanding response to localized slippery conditions such as a set of slippery steps or a short area of walkways. This technician can spread sand over the hazardous area.
- The Grounds Shop also has two employees on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week who are prepared to respond to ice and snow emergencies- both on roads as well as on walkways.
Building and Events managers should call the Facilities Customer Service Center (609-258-8000) or, during after-hours, Public Safety (609-258-1000) whenever hazardous conditions require attention of the Grounds Crew. Public Safety will help to screen for overactive requests - a minimum call out for two men costs the University approximately $250. This is a negligible amount compared to the effect of an injury, but not insignificant enough to be wasted on unnecessary call-ins.
In addition, the Grounds Shop has pre-positioned de-icer chemicals at strategic places around the campus.
The Maintenance Department receives regular forecasts of hazardous weather conditions from a weather service; however, a freezing rain and other dangerous conditions are usually very difficult to predict and are very localized. Experience has shown that a perfectly safe situation can turn treacherous in a matter of a few minutes.
Managers of after-hours events should be sure that Jim Consolloy (609-258-3505 phone; 609-258-5800 fax) is notified ahead of time of all after-hours activities during inclement weather. To the maximum extent possible, he will attempt to anticipate problems and take necessary precautions; however, an unexpected call-in could require substantial travel on treacherous roads plus time to pick up necessary equipment and supplies. Delay of an hour or more is not uncommon. Knowing this, managers of Public Events must be prepared to implement emergency measures using pre-positioned materials. In some cases, use of the pre-positioned materials can save a call-in. Events Managers should know where emergency supplies are kept and contact the Grounds Office anytime the local supply is close to depletion. Persons with special needs or questions should contact Jim Consolloy.